Last month Mercedes-Benz pulled the wraps off its heavily facelifted E-Class sedan and estate and if you were wondering what happened to the two-door models, Merc has just ended your suspense by unveiling the Coupé and Cabriolet models.
These sportier family members have been dealt a similar upgrade, which extends from the exterior styling through to the engine and safety technology.
KEEPING UP APPEARANCES
In keeping with the new family look, the dual headlights have been replaced by single units, which have anti-dazzle LED lights as standard. The front bumper, complete with its large air intakes, has also been redesigned, along with the single-slat grille, taillights and rear bumper.
A few items in the cabin, including the instrument cluster, air outlets and centre console, have also fallen under the designer's scalpel and when it comes to colour selection, clients are promised a "virtually unlimited" scope for individualisation.
ASSISTANCE TECHNOLOGY
Advanced technology abounds with new features such as the Stereo Multi-Purpose Camera near the rear-view mirror, which uses a stereo camera and radars to provide a 3D view of up to 50 metres ahead - basically to detect vehicles that are driving ahead, oncoming or crossing.
This is just one of many newly available or improved features that can be ordered, such as Collision Prevention Assist, Distronic Plus, Pre-Safe Plus, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Adaptive Highbeam Assist Plus and Active Parking Assist.
The South African introduction date and engine-range has yet to be confirmed, but we can't imagine it arriving too long after the sedan's midyear due-date.
FRUGAL POWER
The European market gets to choose between five derivatives, namely 133kW E200 and 155kW E250 four-cylinder petrol models as well as 100kW E200, 150kW E250 and 185kW E350 CDI diesels.
The turbopetrol engines gain a new spray-guided direction injection system, complete with piezo injectors and multi-spark ignition.
Your transmission choice boils down to a six-speed manual and a 7-speed automatic, which has a manual function linked to shift paddles.
While Merc's Agility Control adaptive damping system is already standard, buyers can also opt for a sportier suspension system with firmer settings as well as a Dynamic Handling package, which offers numerous driving mode settings.